Narberth’s Mayor has reflected on a year that has seen significant challenges faced, but has praised all the hard work of key workers, volunteers and the community over the pandemic as we head into 2021.

“On behalf of everyone on Narberth Town Council, I would like to wish you all a very Happy New Year. Well, another year completed - 2020 will certainly be a year we all remember I’m sure, however, what will 2021 bring...watch this space,” said Clr. Chris Walters.

“As we enter another year - this year starts with significant challenges as we remain in a new lockdown period with many local businesses unable to reopen their doors.

“Whilst there is not much I can do as Mayor - I encourage everyone to simply follow the rules and the sooner we all work together then fingers crossed, with the new Vaccine being rolled out across the UK, hopefully, we can finally get rid of this horrible virus or at least slow it down enough so we can all return to a normal life.

“Dare I also say the Brexit Word – I hope that businesses in Narberth are not affected too much by the new rules and regulations coming. I know there is a lot of uncertainty around events going to be held in 2021 but I remain confident that they will go ahead in some way, shape or form.

“I once again want to take time to thank all the community for coming together over Covid especially those who are Key Workers and Front-Line staff who day in, day out put themselves in the thick of this pandemic. On Behalf of Narberth, I thank you for all your hard work.

“This year I celebrated becoming Mayor for the second year running,” he continued.

“Come May I will be passing my robes and First Citizen authority on to another councillor who will lead us into 2022.

“I cannot thank the community enough for introducing me to various groups of individuals, making me aware of exciting projects going on in the community and for making me fully aware of initiatives running within the community.

“I have celebrated some great events including Bloomfield Community Centre celebrating 200 years in business in 2019 to this year congratulating the fantastic ladies of the Narberth WI who celebrated 100 Years formed.

“Other highlights include - Drawing the Queens Hall Car Raffle in aid of their refurbishment fund, Donating a new memorial bench to the town celebrating our War Heroes of many years, getting involved with various fundraisers and to be honest my list goes on and on!

“When I became Mayor, I made sure I also represented the Youth of our Town.

“I have also met some fantastic Youth volunteers, fundraisers and members of Narberth groups including long-standing volunteers from the Narberth Cadets, Beavers, Brownies, Scouts, Rainbows and Explorers who all do such a fantastic job within the town. Thank you for working with me and strengthening our links within the town.

“As readers can probably tell - I am very proud of the community I represent and being Narberth born and bread with many years of rich family history I can honestly say Narberth is a wonderful place!! No matter what age from old or young I am proud to listen and give back to the community where I can.

“As Mayor, I have tried to resolve any community issues brought to me and have always held to account your local councillors and county council on matters that affect our community.

“Those of you who may be new to the area have no idea what wonderful memories you will make in our lovely town.

“Narberth is an exciting Town which is constantly evolving and developing and yet very modest about what it does for Pembrokeshire.

“If you are not yet involved in a group or organisation in Narberth – Please – I encourage you – Do! You will be welcomed with open arms I’m sure.

“Remember each Councillor on Narberth Town Council represents you in the Narberth Community and no matter what the issue or perhaps general feedback you wish to give us it will always be welcomed and we will always work for you to improve our fantastic Town.

“To all my fellow Town Councillors – thank you for supporting me whilst in my term as Mayor. Many of you have provided me with fantastic support and advice and I have to say behind every good Mayor is a fantastic Town Clerk – Mrs. Caroline Coaker.

My thank you goes to Caroline who works tirelessly behind the scenes ensuring I stay on my toes and always ensures Narberth ticks over properly behind the scenes!

“Finally, how could I forget my fantastic family - my Mum - Linda (my Mayoress), my Sister Janie, her partner Nigel including my nephew Thomas for all the support they have given me both in 2019 and 2020 and of course my wonderful partner Bron for supporting me through-out 2020 and on behalf of all of us may we wish the whole of the Narberth community a safe, healthy, and prosperous New Year! See you all in 2021! Stay Safe everyone!!” added Narberth’s Mayor.